Emanuel Thanks Voters For “Putting Me Through My Paces”

Rahm Emanuel says being pushed into Chicago's first mayoral runoff will make him a better mayor.

Emanuel on Tuesday defeated Cook County Commissioner Jesus "Chuy" Garcia to win a second term as mayor.

Speaking to supporters at a union hall, Emanuel thanked voters "for putting me through my paces."

The former White House chief of staff says: "I will be a better mayor because of that."

Emanuel failed to win a majority in a five-candidate February election, forcing the mayoral runoff.

Garcia criticized Emanuel for not listening to neighborhood residents. He relied on his community contacts and a strong field operation that included the Chicago Teachers Union and progressive groups.

Emanuel campaigned hard, trying to convince voters that he was the best candidate to navigate Chicago's serious financial problems.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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